Venezuela opposition seeks army backing, leader to meet Biden
The Hindu
Venezuelan opposition leader seeks military recognition as commander-in-chief, backed by international support, amid political turmoil.
Venezuelan opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia called Sunday (January 6, 2025) for the military to recognize him as commander-in-chief, as he continued an international tour seeking to pressure President Nicolas Maduro to relinquish power.
Mr. Gonzalez Urrutia has been recognized by the United States, Italy and several Latin American nations as Venezuela's president-elect, despite Mr. Maduro being declared the official winner of the July 28 vote.
Having fled the country after being targeted with an arrest warrant, Mr. Gonzalez Urrutia has launched an international tour in the days leading up to January 10, when the next president is set to be sworn in.
After stops in Buenos Aires and Montevideo, he has headed next to Washington, where he will meet with President Joe Biden on Monday, a US source familiar with the planning told AFP.
The meeting was not on Mr. Biden's public schedule released Sunday, and it was also not clear if a winter storm headed toward Washington could impact the plans.
The 75-year-old former diplomat, who fled in exile to Spain in September, has pledged to return to his country to be sworn in.
In a video posted Sunday on X, Mr. Gonzalez Urrutia addressed Venezuela's army, telling them: "On January 10, by the sovereign will of the Venezuelan people, I must assume the role of commander-in-chief."
Indian companies Raxuter Chemicals and Athos Chemicals charged with distributing fentanyl precursor chemicals to the US.
Shorts News:Watch: Justin Trudeau’s resignation speech
Kim Jong Un tests hypersonic missile system to deter Pacific rivals, coinciding with U.S. Secretary of State's visit.
Seattle police officer fired for killing Indian student in tragic accident, bringing closure and justice for victim's family.
Shooting at Honduran consulate near Atlanta leaves one dead, one injured, suspect in custody. Mexican citizen killed.
First U.S. death from H5N1 bird flu reported in Louisiana patient, highlighting risks for those in contact with birds.
Deadly winter storm blankets central and eastern US, disrupting travel, causing power outages, and prompting emergency declarations.
Security forces clash with gunmen in Guanajuato, Mexico, leaving 10 dead; ongoing violence linked to drug cartels.
AI-generated deepfake porn targeting female politicians threatens women's participation in public life, requiring urgent global regulation.
Experience Myanmar-style drug rehabilitation at Metta Saneain, where tough love and activities help break addiction cycles.
Spain's divisive 50th anniversary of Franco's death sparks political tensions as government and opposition clash over commemorations.